Running & Handling

Proper running and handling
procedures are imperative to maximize performance, extend the life, and reduce
the overall cost of drill pipe and BHA components. Proper running and handling
procedures aid in the prevention of downhole makeup, shoulder-separation,
washout and high break-out torque. Depending on the specific connection,
running and handling procedures may vary slightly; however, as a general
guideline, proper running and handling procedures can be easily remembered:

CALIBRATION

Torque and handling equipment should
be properly adjusted and calibrated.

CLEAN

All connections (drill pipe, subs,
lift plugs, saver subs, etc.) and thread protectors should be clean, thread
compound should be free of contamination.

COVERAGE

100% of connection thread seal, and
shoulder surfaces should be uniformly covered with a light coat of thread
compound.

CONTROL

Drill pipe should be handled,
stabbed, made up properly, and aligned under complete control.

CLAMP
PRESSURE

Should be minimized. Tongs should
not be positioned over thin section of boxes.

Running & Handling Tips

Below are some useful pieces of
information on how to make Grant Prideco's drill stem products as safe and
effective as possible. Adhering to these concepts will allow users to maximize
performance, extend the life, and reduce the overall cost of drill pipe and BHA
components.

It is very important to understand
how drill stem products are to be used properly. Specific connections may
require a more "directed" set of running & handling procedures.
Grant Prideco provides the following connection-specific guides in order that
each of our double-shouldered connections may best be handled.